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What’s the full LEAD statement?

Local Electeds Against Discrimination (LEAD)

We, the undersigned elected officials from across the State of Michigan, proudly stand together in support of non-discrimination protections for gay and transgender residents.

All hardworking people in our state, including those who are gay or transgender, should have the chance to earn a living and provide for themselves and their families. No one should have to live in fear that they could be legally fired for reasons that have nothing to do with their job performance – especially in this uncertain economic climate.

We personally know many gay and transgender people living in our cities who actively contribute to their communities, are model employees, and should be treated fairly and equally just like all other Michigan residents.

We are proud that 18 cities across our state have put non-discrimination protections into law, and we urge our colleagues, not just in other cities, but our colleagues in both houses of the state legislature, to enact similar legislation. Diversity helps to keep our cities strong, and our gay and transgender residents are a part of that diversity.

We know that young, bright, creative-minded professionals are more likely to choose places that foster diversity and inclusion. They are just the kind of workers, thinkers, and doers that Michigan needs to help revitalize our economy.

We are proud to stand for non-discrimination protections, at the municipal, state, and at the federal level. That’s why we’re pushing for the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to be amended to include sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. That’s why we’re doing all we can to foster diversity and inclusion in our cities. And that’s why we are proud to be Michiganders.